Green Emeralds
Green emeralds are one of the most iconic and coveted gemstones in the world of fine jewelry. Revered for their rich green color and timeless elegance, emeralds have been prized for thousands of years, worn by royalty, and celebrated in myths and history alike.
What Is a Green Emerald?
Emeralds are a variety of the mineral beryl, colored green by trace amounts of chromium and vanadium. They rank 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes them relatively durable, though they often contain natural inclusions known as the emerald’s “garden,” or jardin.
Origin and History
Emeralds have a long and storied past. The ancient Egyptians, including Cleopatra, treasured emeralds, sourcing them from mines in Upper Egypt as early as 1500 BCE. Today, the finest emeralds come from Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil, with Colombian emeralds especially valued for their deep, vivid green color and superior clarity.Symbolism and Meaning
Emeralds have long been associated with rebirth, wisdom, love, and protection. They are believed to promote emotional balance and enhance intuition. As the birthstone for May, emeralds are also a popular gift for spring birthdays and 20th or 35th wedding anniversaries.
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